The Dodge Ram 1500 adds big HEMI power and a more rugged looking exterior for 2004. It is not that the previous version Ram looked meek, but this new iteration is even more big rig-like.
Up front there's a large, bold cross-hair grille that oozes toughness. My co-tester and I really liked Ram's front-end styling, especially the way the hood carries the curve of the grille on an angle back towards the A-pillar Ð this is similar to a Mack truck.
Another plus, our Ram tester came equipped with eye-grabbing 20-inch chrome wheels ($1,125) in place of the standard 17-inch units.
No other truck looks as rugged as the Ram. Once you add in HEMI power to back up its impressive looks, it is hard not to love the Ram. The addition of the 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum engine to the Ram 1500 lineup creates the most powerful mass production light-duty pickup on the market.
An optional full-time four-wheel drive system and new "Tow/Haul" transmission feature are also added to Ram 1500 for 2004.
HEMI power was a Chrysler centerpiece back in the 1960s. Now, modern technology meets tried-and-true combustion with the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum. The use of the classic HEMI (hemispherical) head design creates optimal air flow, while twin spark plugs, direct ignition and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) allow for smooth, efficient operation.
Composite air-flow modules combine with cross-flow aluminum heads, splayed valves and investment cast rocker arms to deliver an awesome 100 horsepower increase and an additional 40 lb.-ft. of torque compared with the 5.9-liter Magnum.
Fuel efficiency is also improved by 10 percent over the 5.9-liter, while the new HEMI Magnum engine is approximately 60 lbs. lighter in weight.
The 5.7-liter HEMI Magnum engine is mated to the 5-45RFE 5-speed automatic transmission, the only transmission in its class with the reverse gear ratio equal to the low gear ratio, useful for reversing while towing.
The 5-45RFE also features a unique alternate second gear ratio for use in grade-climbing and passing situations. The HEMI-powered Ram is capable of towing 9,300 lbs.
For those not needing all that power, the Ram is also available with a 4.7-liter V8 (295 horsepower) or 3.7-liter V6 (215 horsepower).
Both Regular and Quad Cab versions of the Ram 1500 are available. To enhance comfort and convenience, Ram Quad Cab's four doors are front-hinged, all with inside and outside handles, to improve entry and exit. The rear doors open 85 degrees and the windows move all the way down.
In addition to increased seating room and comfort, Ram Quad Cab features a host of storage compartments and conveniences. Rear seats feature an optional 60/40 split to accommodate passengers and cargo together.
Both the Dodge Ram Quad Cab and Regular Cab feature numerous front seat storage areas and convenience features. The 40/20/40 front seat provides for comfortable seating for three or ample center storage for one or two occupants.
The popular center "business console" can hold a laptop computer and features fold-down dividers. The center "20" portion of the seat offers additional "hidden" storage under the cushion when equipped with the power seat option.
Our HEMI-powered Ram Quad Cab tester came equipped with the Laramie Package ($4,845) and many other add-ons that brought the price of admission to more than $40,000.
Both my co-tester and I agreed that the quality of leather used for the seating surfaces left a lot to be desired as well as the interior surfaces which we felt were cheap looking.
I really think the Laramie Package should have included automatic climate control. But when it comes to towing or hauling, with room for six passengers, the HEMI-powered Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab pickup fits the bill. It's one awesome truck that acts as tough as it looks.
2004 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 Quad Cab SLT
Engine: 5.7-liter (345 hp) V8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive Type: 4WD
Fuel Economy: 13 city/17 highway
Base Price: $29,255
As Tested: $40,585 (includes $795 for destination)
Website: www.4adodge.com |